HotShots February 2012 - Town of Gilbert

SAFETY FIRST
By Lee Frische
Town Of Gilbert Risk Manager
Ladder Safety
Each year there are more than 164,000 emergency room-treated injuries relating
to ladders in the U.S. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers
the following safety precautions to help prevent these injuries.
· Make sure the weight your ladder is supporting does not exceed its maximum
load rating (user plus materials). There should only be one person on the
ladder at a time.
Use a ladder that is the proper length for the job. Proper length is a minimum of 3
feet extending over the roof line or working surface. Do not stand on the three top
rungs of a straight, single or extension ladder.
· Straight, single or extension ladders should be set up at about a 75-degree
angle.
· All metal ladders should have slip-resistant feet.
· Metal ladders will conduct electricity. Use a wooden or fiberglass ladder in the
vicinity of power lines or electrical equipment. Do not let a ladder made from
any material contact live electric wires.
· Be sure all locks on extension ladders are properly engaged.
· The ground under the ladder should be level and firm. Large flat wooden
boards braced under the ladder can level a ladder on uneven ground or soft
ground. A good practice is to have a helper hold the bottom of the ladder.
· Do not place a ladder in front of a door that is not locked, blocked or guarded.
Keep your body centered between the rails of the ladder at all times. Do not lean too
far to the side while working.
· Do not use a ladder for any purpose other than that for which it was intended.
· Do not step on the top step, bucket shelf, or attempt to climb or stand on the
rear section of a stepladder.
· Never leave a raised ladder unattended.
· Follow use instruction labels on ladders.
Please remember these safety precautions at work and at home whenever you use a
ladder.